A traditional dance group comprised of boys and girls, Timbali Temasiko, prides itself in nurturing talented young traditional dancers.
Founded in 2009 by Lucky Mashaba and Zakhele Ngwenya, the two have managed to keep some youngsters off the streets and to gather them to teach them about their Siswati heritage.
Mashaba said they have more than 30 young people between the ages of six and 27. “There are various groups that accommodate the small ones, teenagers, and those a bit older between the ages of 18 and 27 years,” he said.
“The aim of forming a dance group was mainly to teach the youngsters about their heritage, especially Siswati. Some schools do not have curricula that teaches learners about heritages and the different types of cultures we have in South Africa. I believe it is important to be taught about it, because it gives us a sense of meaning about how we came to live in a certain area and why we speak the languages we speak.”
He said while they teach the youngsters about their heritage, they also teach them about respect. “Respect is important in society. We teach them to respect their parents, elders and everyone else. We teach them to respect other people’s beliefs, cultures and traditions.”
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Mashaba said the goal of the group is to create a safe space for children to entertainment themselves while they are being taught something valuable. He said since the establishment of the group, he has seen a great change in some of the youngsters’ behaviour.
Since Heritage Month begun, the group has performed at various Heritage Day/Month celebrations.
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“Performing at events is the best opportunity to showcase the talent of these young people. We are hoping we will get more opportunities and support to perform at even bigger events, which will help us to afford more attire and equipment for the group,” Mashaba said.
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